Question
A small, dry paper clip can rest on the surface of still water. Why can’t a heavier paper clip do the same without sinking?
Step 1
This force makes the surface of the water act like a thin, elastic sheet, similar to cling wrap. \[ F_{\text{surface tension}} = \gamma \cdot L \] where \( \gamma \) is the surface tension and \( L \) is the length of the line of contact. Show more…
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